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Choosing the Right Fixings for Different Mirror Types

mirror mounting

Mirrors are not just for bathrooms; they can transform any room. They are a powerful tool with regard to interior design and are used to make rooms appear larger, brighter and more visually interesting by cleverly reflecting light and space, creating illusions and enhancing the perceived size and atmosphere of that room. So the last thing you want to happen after hanging your magical mirror is for it to come crashing down!

Mirrors have always played an important part in our lives, and the superstition that breaking one will bring 7 years’ bad luck stems back to ancient times, where a mirror was believed to reflect one’s soul, and breaking it would damage the soul and lead to a period of misfortune.

Hanging a mirror is not just about banging a nail in the wall; you need to know about your mirror AND your wall before deciding on the right fixing.

Know Your Walls and Their Fixings

Using the right fixing is crucial, not only for the safety of the item you are hanging, but also so it doesn’t cause damage to anyone else if it falls, or pull your walls down with it! First, you need to know what your wall is made of to choose the right fixings, so your mirror will be secure wherever you hang it.

  • Plasterboard or Drywall – this lightweight material can be easily damaged, and the plaster can crack or crumble, so plasterboard plugs are ideal for lightweight mirrors, artwork and clocks. The plugs expand behind the wall when a screw is inserted, making a secure hold. For heavier mirrors, hollow wall anchors will provide more stability.
  • Brick Walls – to drill into a solid brick wall, you need a masonry bit, and you will need to use masonry plugs and screws that expand inside the drilled hole, giving a secure hold.
  • Wooden Walls – wood screws are designed for light and heavy items without the need for plugs.
  • Concrete Walls – these walls are extremely strong and hard, so difficult to drill into, and a hammer drill and masonry drill bit may be needed, and concrete plugs and screws will provide a secure hold.

Know Your Mirror

Knowing the weight of your mirror is essential to hang it securely, and always choose hardware that is rated for more than the weight of the mirror. Framed mirrors are often heavier and may come with hardware to hang them properly. For heavier mirrors, use strong wall-mounting systems designed to hold substantial weight and keep the mirror flush against the wall. Some framed mirrors come with D-rings or brackets on the mirror back, connected with a hanging wire.

Frameless mirrors are lighter and require clips, adhesives or special brackets made of plastic or metal that hold the mirror from the top and bottom, or all sides. Special adhesives are sometimes used for bathroom mirrors, but they can’t be removed without damage.

You only want to hang it once, so hang it right! When dealing with challenging wall materials or large, heavy mirrors, professional mirror hanging services can ensure your mirror is securely and safely mounted using the correct fixings for your specific wall type. For expert advice on the perfect placement and secure installation, All About Hanging specialists can handle even the most complex mirror installations with precision and care.